What does system Too Lean Bank 1 mean?
The OBDII trouble code P0171 – System Too Lean (Bank 1) means that the engine air-fuel mixture is too lean, or there is too much air and too little fuel. Driving a car with the code P0171 can cause more damage to the engine over time, as when the engine runs lean, the combustion temperature is higher.
Can a vacuum leak cause catalytic converter?
At its worst, long-term driving with a vacuum leak, elevated temperatures generated by running a lean air-fuel ratio could result in engine damage. Lean mixtures can detonate, damaging pistons and bearings. Higher than normal exhaust temperatures can also lead to catalytic converter meltdown.
Why is the p0171 code too lean Bank 1?
If the P0171 is combined with the P0174 code, the problem is likely caused by an intake leak or the Intake Plenum Gasket and seals. If there are no intake leaks, the next step is to replace the air filter and clean the airflow meter.
What does the code p0171 on an oxygen sensor mean?
This code could either mean that the oxygen sensor is detecting too much oxygen or too little fuel in the mixture. This lack of fuel is known as a lean mixture. In simpler terms, what the code P0171 means is that your system has too lean of a mixture and is not operating optimally.
What does it mean when Bank 1 is too lean?
Basically this means that an oxygen sensor in bank 1 has detected a lean condition (too much oxygen in the exhaust). On V6/V8/V10 engines, Bank 1 is the side of the engine that has cylinder #1. The P0171 is one of the more common trouble codes. This code is triggered by the first downstream (front) O2 sensor.
When does a p0171 fuel system Lean flag?
Not enough fuel for a given amount of air or too much air for a given amount of fuel. As soon as the computer sees the air fuel ratio go too lean for a period of time two consecutive engine warm up cycles, it will flag your P0171 code.